Calling Your Lawmakers

Picking up the phone and calling your lawmaker to share your thoughts on an issue or piece of legislation is a powerful advocacy tactic. Lawmakers and their staff track the number of calls they receive on specific bills, and these calls are often taken into account when decisions are being made. A quick phone call is one of the most effective ways to make sure your voice is heard.

Here are some tips about how to use phone calls to advocate for you and your loved ones.

Plan Ahead:

• Keep it short: Plan for a call that lasts 30 seconds or less, though be ready if it runs a little longer.
• Stay timely: Focus on a current or upcoming issue, such as a vote or urgent opportunity.
• State your purpose: Clearly explain why you are calling and your position on the issue.
• Make it personal: Briefly share why this issue matters to you and how it affects you and/or your loved ones.
• Make the ask: Request that your elected official support or oppose the legislation in question.
• Offer to follow up: Let them know you can provide additional information or resources if needed.

Additional Tips

• Be respectful: Always remain polite to the person who answers the phone.
• Take notes: Jot down key points from the conversation to track responses.
• Leave a voicemail if needed: State your name, that you are a constituent, and the reason for your call.
• Join call-in efforts: Participate in coordinated efforts when possible, but remember—your individual call still makes a difference!

Please let us know about your calls. We’re here to support you and part of our job is to track advocacy actions across the country. Please email your updates to us at advocacy@pflag.org.